[Universal]

I'm interested in adopting a dog from an animal shelter, however I do have a concern. I own two other dogs - a Golden Retriever and springer spanial/terrier mix respectively. These dogs are, at the moment, roughly 8-9 years old. If I brought a new dog into the fold, would the two dogs I own now have problems? I know the spanial/terrier dislikes when people bring their dogs to our house for a visit, but is there any way for the spanial/terrier to accept a new dog??

Also, if I adopted an adult dog is it likely that they'll attempt to run away from the house? i.e. if the gate is open, even for a second, they'll run out??

[angiesample]

First off i want to say Good Job for choosing to a adopt a dog!!

Combining older dogs and younger dogs is usually not a huge issue. Start by introductions. Have ur dogs meet in a "neutral territory" keeping all the dogs leashed. Let them sniff each other and just get to know each other. Sometimes it does take time, so dont be discouraged. As long as there not fighting then thats a good sign.

Once u get a dog make sure u are doing activities as a pack. Taking all of them for a walk. Feeding them at the same time. There are many things u can do to bring u and ur pack closer.

Depending on what breed u get i dont think u need to be very worried about a new dog trying to run away. Most shelter dogs somehow understand that u have saved there life and tend to be very loyal to there owners. I wouldnt leave a door wide open or anything like that, but i wouldnt be to concerned about this issue.

Let us know when u get ur new dog and post LOTS of pics!!

[Lunareclipse]

We got a new dog at the shelter last week. Everything is working out great. We have a senior saint bernard that is getting kinda pissy in her old age and she doesn't have a problem with our new doggie. It works out different for everyone. Your best bet would to be to take your dogs to the shelter to meet the new dog, especially if you are not sure how your dogs are going to react. Then after you get the new dog, bring everybody home and take them all for a walk together. That makes your old dog eccept your new dog into the pack (in most cases). You never know, but your dogs may take to your new dog like a fish to water. I wish you the best of luck and post pics if you adopt a doggie.
This is our latest addition. Isn't he a handsome boy?